Old Quarter Hanoi Travel Guide 2025: What to Do, Eat & Experience Like a Local

Discover Hanoi’s Old Quarter — the beating heart of Vietnam’s capital. Explore hidden gems, local food, 1-day itineraries, and cultural tips from true Hanoians.

Introduction – The Beating Heart of Hanoi

Imagine waking up to the echo of motorbikes, the smell of Vietnamese coffee, and the chatter of vendors selling breakfast phở. Welcome to Hanoi’s Old Quarter, the city’s living museum — where ancient guild streets, French colonial houses, and local life all collide.

For travelers, this is the perfect first stop in Vietnam — chaotic, charming, and endlessly fascinating.

A Brief History of Hanoi’s Old Quarter

The Old Quarter dates back to the 13th century when Hanoi was a trade hub of craftsmen and merchants.

Each street specialized in one product — silver (Hàng Bạc), silk (Hàng Gai), paper (Hàng Mã).

During the French era, colonial architecture transformed the city, leaving behind balconies, yellow walls, and wide boulevards that still stand today.

This mix of Asian soul and French charm makes the Old Quarter one of the most photogenic destinations in Southeast Asia.

Top Things to Do in and around the Old Quarter

1. Walk the 36 Streets and Hoàn Kiếm Lake

Get lost among the ancient streets, discover family-run shops, and stop by Ngọc Sơn Temple on the iconic red bridge of Hoàn Kiếm Lake.

2. Visit Hỏa Lò Prison (Maison Centrale)

A powerful, must-see museum that tells stories of Vietnam’s colonial resistance and wartime struggles. Highly recommended by locals.

Location:
Hoa Lo Prison is located at 1 Hoa Lo Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi. Its central location makes it easily accessible from anywhere in the city.

How to Get There:

- Motorbike: Travelers can rent a motorbike for about 100,000–150,000 VND (approximately 4–6 USD) per day.

- Car or Taxi: From the Old Quarter or other main areas of Hanoi, the fare is around 50,000–100,000 VND (approximately 2–4 USD).

- Public Bus: Several bus routes stop near the site, including numbers 02, 09, 23, and 40. A standard ticket costs 7,000 VND (about 0.3 USD).

Opening Hours:

The museum is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It is recommended to arrive early to have enough time to explore the exhibits and learn about the prison’s historical significance.

Entrance Fee: 

Admission costs 50,000 VND (around 2 USD) per person. War veterans and children under six years old can enter for free. Audio guides in multiple languages are available for an additional 50,000 VND (around 2 USD) per device, offering deeper insight into the prison’s dark history and its role in Vietnam’s past.

3. Weekend Walking Street & Night Market

Every weekend, traffic stops and music begins — walk freely around Hoàn Kiếm Lake and head to the Night Market for souvenirs, clothes, and snacks.

4. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum & Thăng Long Imperial Citadel

Watch the flag-raising or lowering ceremony at Ba Dinh Square, then visit the historic Thăng Long Citadel, a UNESCO heritage site. See detailed directions on Google Maps.

5. Complex 01 (Tây Sơn Street)

A creative hub filled with art, cafes, and local events. Check their Facebook page for current exhibitions or weekend flea markets.

6. Lotte Aquarium (Thủy Cung Lotte)

A fun, modern aquarium inside Lotte Center Hanoi — check prices in advance as weekend tickets can cost more. View directions on Google Maps

Best Pubs & Chill Bars Loved by Locals

Hanoi’s nightlife isn’t just beer corners. These local pubs and bars show the city’s creative side:

1. 9Luv
Vibe: Trendy, young crowd
Notes: Closed on Mondays

2. Kẻ Ôm Mơ
Vibe: Artistic and hidden
Notes: Located in an alley, head up to the 3rd floor

3. Mầm
Vibe: Chill and cozy design
Notes: Offers affordable cocktails

4. Hanoi Social Club
Vibe: Bohemian cafe-bar
Notes: Live music on Tuesdays and Wednesdays

5. USEbar
Vibe: Local favorite
Notes: Great for late-night conversations

6. Zeropoint
Vibe: Underground atmosphere
Notes: DJs perform on weekends

Note: Follow their Facebook pages for live music & events.

Best Street Food in Hanoi’s Old Quarter (Local’s Pick)

Eat where the locals eat — not where tourists line up. Here’s a list from a true Hanoian family — three generations of food lovers who’ve lived in the Old Quarter:

1. Bún Chả – Opposite 13 Pham Hong Thai
   Famous grilled pork served with rice noodles, fresh herbs, and dipping sauce.
2. Phở Gà Lan – 13 Pham Hong Thai
   A local favorite breakfast spot known for its aromatic chicken noodle soup.
3. Phở Bò Tuyết – 12 Hang Than
   Traditional beef phở with a rich, flavorful broth and tender slices of beef.
4. Xôi Nguyệt – Tho Nhuom Street
   Sticky rice topped with a variety of savory toppings, perfect for breakfast or a light meal.
5. Ngan Cháy Tỏi – 51 Hang Luoc
   Crispy fried goose with garlic – a uniquely Hanoi specialty loved by locals.
6. Phở Tíu Phương Béo – Ngo Cho Dong Xuan
   A sweet-savory noodle dish with peanuts, a distinct taste compared to classic phở.
7. Bún Đậu Mẹt Tuấn Trọc – 23 Phan Huy Ich
   Fried tofu platter with herbs, rice noodles, and fermented shrimp paste – a true street food experience.
8. Bún Riêu – 23 Hong Phuc
   Light and tangy tomato crab noodle soup, simple but packed with flavor.
9. Bánh Cuốn Thanh Vân – Hang Ga / Le Van Huu / Tue Tinh
   Steamed rice rolls filled with minced pork and wood-ear mushrooms, served with fish sauce and herbs.

Avoid overpriced food carts near Hoàn Kiếm Lake. Choose eateries with clear prices or visible menus.

See details here

Where to Stay

- Old Quarter – Best for first-time visitors (everything within walking distance).

- Hoàn Kiếm Lake – Ideal for couples, great view and safety.

- Ba Dinh / West Lake – Quiet, elegant, close to museums & embassies.

Tip: Book early — boutique hotels here fill up fast in high season (Oct–Mar).

Hidden Gems & Local Experiences in Hanoi

If you’ve seen the main attractions, here are less touristy gems loved by locals:

- Long Biên Bridge Sunrise Walk – A poetic morning view of the Red River and local life.

- Hidden Gem Coffee (Bát Đàn Street) – A recycled café full of charm.

- Trill Rooftop Café (Hoàng Cầu) – Great spot for sunset and skyline views.

- Book Street (Phố Sách Hà Nội) – Small but peaceful; perfect for a quiet break.

- Chân Cầu Café – Coffee shop hidden under Long Biên Bridge — unique atmosphere.

These spots add a deeper layer to your Hanoi experience — calm, creative, and real.

Suggested 1-Day Itinerary in the Old Quarter

Here’s how to enjoy the Old Quarter like a local, from dawn to dusk:

7:00 AM – Breakfast at Phở Gà Lan (13 Pham Hong Thai)
Start your day like a local with a warm bowl of chicken noodle soup.

8:30 AM – Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum & watch the Flag Raising Ceremony
Witness one of Vietnam’s most solemn and symbolic daily traditions.

10:00 AM – Explore Hỏa Lò Prison Museum
Discover the complex history behind this former French colonial prison.

12:00 PM – Lunch with Bún Chả (opposite 13 Pham Hong Thai)
Enjoy Hanoi’s iconic grilled pork and noodles, a must-try local dish.

1:30 PM – Stroll around Hoàn Kiếm Lake & visit Ngọc Sơn Temple
Take a peaceful walk and admire one of Hanoi’s most scenic landmarks.

3:00 PM – Egg Coffee at Giang Café
Relax with Hanoi’s signature drink, a creamy mix of coffee and egg yolk.

5:00 PM – Wander the Night Market & shop for souvenirs
Explore the vibrant weekend market filled with local crafts and snacks.

7:00 PM – Dinner at Bánh Cuốn Thanh Vân (Hàng Gà)
Taste freshly steamed rice rolls served with fish sauce and herbs.

8:30 PM – Chill at Mầm Bar or Kẻ Ôm Mơ
End your day with cocktails, good music, and Hanoi’s unique nightlife atmosphere.

If you stay longer, add Thăng Long Citadel or Complex 01 to your itinerary.

Hanoi Travel Etiquette & Cultural Tips

Hanoians are kind and polite — a few cultural notes will make your trip smoother:

1. Remove your shoes before entering homes, pagodas, or temples.
2. Avoid touching someone’s head — it’s considered disrespectful.
3. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
4. Don’t raise your voice or show affection in temples.
5. Learn a few Vietnamese words: “Xin chào” – Hello,  “Cảm ơn” – Thank you, “Bao nhiêu tiền?” – How much?
6. Cross the street confidently — move slowly, and traffic will flow around you!

These small gestures go a long way in showing respect and often earn you warm smiles.

Recommended Tours from Hanoi’s Old Quarter

All these tours start right from your hotel in the Old Quarter:

Hanoi Street Food Walking Tour

Explore hidden alleys and taste the city’s best dishes with a local guide.

Sapa Trekking Tour

Discover the rice terraces and ethnic minority villages in northern Vietnam. 

Ha Long Bay Cruise (2 Days 1 Night)

Sail among limestone cliffs and emerald waters — a must-see UNESCO site.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with the Old Quarter

Every sound, smell, and smile tells a story here.
From morning phở to late-night beer corners, the Old Quarter connects travelers to the true heartbeat of Vietnam.

“Start your journey in Hanoi’s Old Quarter — and let Vietravely craft the perfect Vietnam experience for you.”

 Have questions or need help planning your Vietnam trip? Chat with us on WhatsApp at +84918686665— we’re happy to help!